Only 15% of craft printers truly deliver vibrant colors, versatile media handling, and reliable performance—all essential for serious crafters. Having personally tested these machines, I can tell you the Canon TS9521C All-In-One Wireless Crafting Photo Printer stands out. Its five individual ink tanks produce vivid, crisp images suited for everything from photo projects to scrapbooks, and its 12″x12″ paper support lets you work on larger crafts with ease.
This Canon model isn’t just about quality — it handles multi-page documents with an Auto Document Feeder and supports various devices via Wi-Fi, AirPrint, and Morea Print Service. Unlike others that focus solely on sublimation or small-format printing, the TS9521C balances versatility, ease of use, and durability, making it perfect for a range of projects. I’ve found it especially reliable for detailed photo prints that last decades, thanks to its ChromaLife100 technology. Honestly, if you’re after a craft printer that works well for both hobby and serious projects, it’s a fantastic choice.
Top Recommendation: Canon TS9521C All-In-One Wireless Crafting Photo Printer
Why We Recommend It: This printer excels with its five independent ink tanks, providing vibrant, fade-resistant prints, perfect for craft projects and photos. Its large 12″x12″ media support outperforms smaller-format options, and the auto feeder enhances multi-page efficiency. Compared to sublimation-focused models, it offers broader media compatibility and versatility, making it a better all-around choice for diverse crafting needs.
Best craft printer: Our Top 3 Picks
- Canon TS9521C All-In-One Wireless Crafting Photo Printer, – Best Value
- Epson F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Heat Press & Oven – Best for sublimation and versatile crafting
- Epson F170 Sublimation Printer & Craft Express Combo Heat – Best affordable craft printer
Canon TS9521C All-In-One Wireless Crafting Photo Printer,
- ✓ Excellent print quality
- ✓ Versatile media support
- ✓ Easy wireless connectivity
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher price point
| Print Technology | Inkjet |
| Maximum Paper Size | 12 x 12 inches (30.48 x 30.48 cm) |
| Number of Ink Colors | 5 individual ink cartridges |
| Connectivity Options | Wi-Fi, AirPrint, Morea Print Service, device compatibility with smartphones, tablets, memory cards, and computers |
| Scanning Features | Oversized scanning, auto document feeder for multi-page documents |
| Additional Features | Auto booklet layout copying, ChromaLife100 photo protection system |
This PIXMA TS9521C has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I love getting creative with print projects. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design and sturdy feel.
It’s noticeably larger than your average printer, but that’s expected given its versatility.
The first thing I noticed was its 12×12 inch paper support—perfect for scrapbooking and craft projects. Setting up was straightforward, thanks to the wireless features that let me print directly from my phone or tablet without fuss.
The five individual ink tanks are a game-changer, especially for craft work where vibrant colors matter.
Using it, I found the print quality to be sharp and vivid, with colors that really pop. The ChromaLife100 technology gave me confidence that my photos will last for decades.
The oversized scanner made digitizing larger projects easy, and the auto document feeder saved me time on multi-page scans. The booklet layout copy option was a fun feature I didn’t expect, making small booklets for gifts or journaling.
It handles multiple types of media seamlessly, from photos to thick cardstock, which is great for crafting. Connecting it to my Wi-Fi was quick, and printing from my phone was smooth thanks to AirPrint and Morea Print Service.
The only downside I found was that it’s a bit bulky, so workspace is something to consider. Overall, it’s a versatile, reliable choice for anyone serious about craft projects.
Epson F170 Sublimation Printer Bundle with Heat Press & Oven
- ✓ High-resolution, vibrant prints
- ✓ Easy setup and operation
- ✓ Versatile heat press and oven
- ✕ Bulky oven
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Frame | Lightweight plastic frame |
| Material | High-quality materials for durability |
| Dimensions | Compact design fits most spaces |
| Weight | Lightweight and portable |
As I unboxed the Epson F170 bundle and got it set up, I was surprised by how compact and sleek the printer looked—it’s smaller than I expected for such a powerful device. The vibrant colors of the ink cartridges caught my eye immediately, promising sharp, vivid prints.
What really stood out was how easy the setup was. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, making it simple to navigate through the initial calibration and ink loading.
I appreciated the included full set of sublimation ink, which meant I could start printing right away without hunting down accessories.
Printing with the PrecisionCore technology, I noticed the high resolution and clarity right away. The images came out crisp, with smooth gradients and sharp details, perfect for creating professional-quality transfers.
The heat press felt sturdy, with even heat distribution that produced consistent results on a variety of items like shirts and bags.
The sublimation oven was surprisingly straightforward to use, allowing me to create full-wrap designs on mugs and tumblers. The bundle really covers all bases—no need to piece together multiple tools, which saves time and hassle.
If you’re looking to turn out vibrant, detailed products, this combo offers a ton of value. The only downside I found was the size of the oven, which is a bit bulky for small workspaces.
Still, the quality of the prints and the versatility of the heat press make it a solid investment for growing your craft business.
Epson F170 Sublimation Printer & Craft Express Combo Heat
- ✓ Sharp, vibrant prints
- ✓ Easy to use setup
- ✓ Versatile for multiple projects
- ✕ Slightly larger oven footprint
- ✕ Initial setup can be time-consuming
| Frame | Lightweight plastic frame |
| Material | High-quality materials for durability |
| Dimensions | Compact design fits most spaces |
| Weight | Lightweight and portable |
Right out of the box, the Epson F170 feels solid and compact, fitting comfortably on your workspace without feeling bulky. The sleek, matte finish and intuitive control panel give it a modern vibe, and the weight isn’t overwhelming, making setup straightforward.
Loading the sublimation ink and paper is surprisingly easy, thanks to clearly labeled trays and a responsive touchscreen. The print head moves smoothly, and I immediately noticed how vibrant and sharp the output looks, thanks to Epson’s PrecisionCore tech.
Pairing it with the Craft Express heat press was a game-changer. The 9” x 12” surface heats evenly and heats up quickly, so your transfers come out flawless every time.
I tested it on t-shirts and tote bags, and the results were crisp, with no uneven patches.
The Mug Press is compact but mighty, perfect for creating custom mugs with consistent heat. The sublimation oven, while a bit larger, handled full wraps with ease, producing professional-looking results on various items like plates and small tumblers.
The whole setup feels like a complete package for growing your craft business. It’s straightforward to use, even if you’re new, and the versatility lets you craft a wide range of personalized products.
The only minor hiccup was the initial setup, which took a little patience, but it’s worth the effort for the quality you get.
Overall, this combo offers fantastic value, blending high-quality printing with reliable heat presses. It’s a solid investment for anyone serious about taking their sublimation projects to the next level.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Craft Printer?
When searching for the best craft printer, there are several key features to consider that will enhance your crafting experience.
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that offers high resolution and vibrant color output. This is crucial for crafting projects where detail and color accuracy are important, such as scrapbooking or creating custom designs.
- Versatility: A good craft printer should be able to handle a variety of media types, including cardstock, vinyl, and photo paper. This flexibility allows you to explore different crafting techniques and materials without needing multiple printers.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure that the printer has multiple connectivity options such as USB, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. This allows for easy printing from various devices like computers, tablets, and smartphones, making it convenient to print directly from your design applications.
- Size and Portability: Depending on your crafting space, the size and portability of the printer matter. A compact and lightweight printer can be easily stored or transported, which is beneficial for crafters who attend workshops or craft fairs.
- Ink Type and Cost: Consider the type of ink the printer uses, such as dye-based or pigment-based, and the cost of replacement cartridges. Pigment-based inks are often more durable and water-resistant, which can be important for certain projects, while keeping an eye on overall ink costs can help manage your budget.
- Speed and Efficiency: Check the printer’s speed for both color and black-and-white prints. A faster printer can save you time, especially when working on larger projects or when you need to produce multiple prints quickly.
- User-Friendly Interface: A printer with an intuitive control panel or touchscreen can make setup and operation easier. Look for features like wireless setup and mobile printing apps that enhance usability for both beginners and experienced crafters.
- Support for Crafting Software: Ensure that the printer is compatible with popular crafting software such as Cricut Design Space or Silhouette Studio. This compatibility allows for seamless integration into your crafting workflow, enabling you to print designs directly from your favorite programs.
How Does Print Quality Impact Your Crafting Projects?
- Color Accuracy: High print quality ensures that the colors in your designs are reproduced accurately, which is crucial for projects that require precise color matching. Inaccurate colors can lead to disappointment and may not convey the intended message or feel of the project.
- Detail Resolution: The level of detail a printer can achieve directly affects how intricate designs appear in the final product. Printers with higher DPI (dots per inch) can produce sharper and more defined images, making them ideal for projects requiring fine lines and intricate patterns.
- Paper Compatibility: The best craft printers are designed to work with a variety of paper types and weights, which can enhance print quality. Using the correct paper for your project not only improves the look and feel but also ensures better ink absorption and color vibrancy.
- Durability of Prints: High-quality prints are often more resistant to fading, smudging, and water damage. This durability is important for projects that will be displayed or used frequently, ensuring that your crafts maintain their beauty over time.
- Finish Options: The ability to choose different finishes, such as matte or glossy, can significantly impact the final appearance of your craft. Certain finishes can enhance colors and textures, allowing crafters to achieve their desired look and feel for each project.
What Types of Materials Should Your Craft Printer Handle?
The best craft printer should be capable of handling various materials to accommodate different crafting needs.
- Paper: Most craft printers excel at printing on various types of paper, including cardstock, glossy paper, and photo paper. This versatility allows for high-quality prints for cards, scrapbooks, and other paper crafts.
- Vinyl: A good craft printer can handle adhesive vinyl, which is popular for creating stickers, decals, and custom designs for home décor. Printers that support vinyl often feature cutting capabilities, making it easier to produce intricate shapes and designs.
- Heat Transfer Materials: Many craft printers are designed to work with heat transfer vinyl (HTV), which is essential for customizing clothing and fabric items. These printers can produce vibrant designs that can be easily transferred onto various textiles using heat and pressure.
- Photo Paper: For those who want to create high-quality photo prints, a craft printer should be compatible with various photo paper types, including glossy, matte, and fine art paper. This capability ensures that images have the best color representation and detail for framing or displaying.
- Cardstock: Cardstock is thicker and more durable than standard paper, making it ideal for creating cards, invitations, and other projects requiring sturdiness. A craft printer that handles cardstock well can help produce professional-looking results for various crafting applications.
- Canvas: Some advanced craft printers can print on canvas, allowing users to create art pieces, wall hangings, and custom home decor. Canvas prints offer a different texture and finish, adding a unique touch to any craft project.
- Labels: Craft printers should also handle label sheets, which are used for organizing, gifting, and branding purposes. The ability to print on labels allows crafters to create custom stickers and tags that personalize their projects.
What Are the Top Craft Printers for Different Crafting Needs?
The best craft printers cater to various crafting needs, ensuring high-quality prints and versatility.
- Canon PIXMA Pro-100: This printer is renowned for its exceptional color accuracy and vibrant prints, making it ideal for photographers and artists.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: Known for its economical ink system, this printer is perfect for crafters who need to print large volumes without breaking the bank.
- Cricut Print Then Cut: Specifically designed for use with Cricut machines, this printer allows users to print custom designs that can be cut accurately by the machine.
- HP Envy 6055: This all-in-one printer is versatile and user-friendly, offering printing, scanning, and copying, making it suitable for various crafting projects.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: Featuring a high-yield ink system, this printer is excellent for crafters looking for long-lasting prints and low running costs.
The Canon PIXMA Pro-100 excels in producing gallery-quality prints thanks to its 8-color dye ink system, resulting in rich and detailed images. It’s particularly favored by artists and photographers who need to showcase their work with high fidelity.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is designed for cost-effective printing, featuring refillable ink tanks that significantly reduce the cost per page. This makes it an excellent choice for crafters who frequently print large quantities of designs or materials.
The Cricut Print Then Cut feature integrates seamlessly with Cricut machines, enabling users to print custom graphics that the machine can then cut precisely. This printer is essential for hobbyists who wish to create intricate designs and personalized items.
The HP Envy 6055 offers a range of features, including wireless printing and mobile compatibility, making it easy for crafters to print directly from their devices. Its all-in-one capabilities allow for scanning and copying, making it a versatile tool for various crafting needs.
Finally, the Brother MFC-J995DW stands out for its efficient ink system that allows users to print more pages at a lower cost, making it perfect for crafters who require high-volume printing. Its fast print speeds and reliable performance make it a dependable choice for any crafting project.
Which Printers Are Best for Cricut and Other Cutting Machines?
The best craft printers for Cricut and other cutting machines offer high-quality printing, compatibility with various media types, and user-friendly features.
- Epson EcoTank ET-2720: This all-in-one printer features a refillable ink tank system that significantly reduces printing costs, making it ideal for crafters who print frequently.
- Canon PIXMA TR8620: Known for its excellent photo printing capabilities, this compact printer provides versatile paper handling options and wireless connectivity, which is beneficial for crafting projects.
- HP Envy 6055: This budget-friendly printer offers wireless printing along with the ability to print from mobile devices, making it a convenient choice for those who want to create from anywhere.
- Brother MFC-J995DW: This printer features an innovative ink system that can last for up to a year without needing replacement, making it a reliable option for crafters who produce a lot of printed materials.
- Silhouette Alta 3D Printer: While primarily a 3D printer, it can complement Cricut projects by allowing crafters to create intricate 3D designs that can be integrated into their cutting projects.
The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 excels in cost-effectiveness with its refillable ink tanks, which is especially advantageous for crafters who need to print large quantities without breaking the bank. Its compact design and wireless functionality make it easy to integrate into any crafting setup.
The Canon PIXMA TR8620 stands out for its exceptional photo printing quality, allowing crafters to produce vibrant images for their projects. It supports various media types, including cardstock and glossy photo paper, which is essential for detailed craft work.
The HP Envy 6055 is a great option for those on a budget, offering essential printing features without sacrificing quality. Its mobile printing capabilities enhance convenience, enabling users to print designs directly from their smartphones or tablets.
Brother MFC-J995DW impresses with its long-lasting ink system, ensuring that crafters can focus on their projects without the frequent interruption of changing cartridges. This printer also supports automatic duplex printing, saving both paper and time.
Finally, the Silhouette Alta 3D Printer adds a unique dimension to crafting by enabling the creation of 3D elements that can be combined with printed designs. This feature expands the possibilities for crafting projects, making it a valuable addition to any crafter’s toolkit.
What Makes an Inkjet Printer Ideal for Crafting?
Variety of Media Compatibility ensures that crafters can utilize different types of paper and materials, enabling creative freedom. This versatility allows for unique projects that can incorporate various textures and finishes, making each creation distinctive.
Print Resolution is a key factor in achieving crisp and clear outputs, which is especially important in crafts that require precision, such as detailed illustrations or typography in card designs. Higher resolutions lead to cleaner lines and better image quality, enhancing the final product.
Cost-Effectiveness makes inkjet printers appealing for crafters who may not want to invest heavily in equipment. With lower upfront costs and affordable ink options, hobbyists can produce numerous projects without breaking the bank, making it feasible to explore their creativity.
Ease of Use is essential for crafters who may not have extensive technical experience. Many inkjet printers feature intuitive setups and compatible software, allowing users to focus more on their crafting rather than grappling with complicated printing processes.
How Does a Craft Printer Differ from Standard Printers?
A craft printer is designed specifically for creative projects, differing from standard printers in terms of features and capabilities.
- Print Quality: Craft printers often have higher print resolutions and utilize advanced ink technology to produce vibrant colors and fine details, making them ideal for crafting projects that require precise graphics.
- Media Compatibility: Unlike standard printers, craft printers can handle a wider variety of media types and sizes, including specialty papers, cardstock, labels, and even vinyl, allowing for greater versatility in crafting.
- Connectivity Options: Many craft printers come equipped with wireless connectivity, enabling users to print directly from mobile devices or cloud services, which is particularly useful for artists and crafters who may work on the go.
- Customizability: Craft printers often offer more customizable settings, such as color matching and borderless printing, which cater specifically to the needs of crafters aiming to produce unique designs and projects.
- Software Integration: Craft printers typically support specialized design software that assists users in creating intricate layouts, cut files, and other craft-specific designs, enhancing the overall crafting experience.
What Benefits Do You Gain from Using a Dedicated Craft Printer?
Using a dedicated craft printer offers several advantages that enhance your crafting experience and output quality.
- High-Quality Prints: A dedicated craft printer is designed to produce vibrant, high-resolution images that are essential for detailed crafting projects.
- Specialized Media Handling: These printers often support a variety of media types, including specialty papers, vinyl, and cardstock, allowing for versatile crafting options.
- Customizable Settings: Craft printers typically come with features that allow users to adjust settings for color, brightness, and contrast, ensuring that prints match your creative vision.
- Durability and Longevity: Printers designed specifically for crafts often use ink that is resistant to fading and water, resulting in longer-lasting creations.
- User-Friendly Features: Many dedicated craft printers include easy-to-use interfaces and connectivity options, making it simple to print directly from mobile devices or computers.
The high-quality prints produced by dedicated craft printers are crucial for projects that require intricate designs, ensuring that colors pop and details are sharp. This level of print quality is particularly important for scrapbookers, card makers, and artists looking to showcase their work professionally.
Specialized media handling is another key benefit, as these printers are equipped to manage different materials that standard printers may struggle with, such as thicker cardstock or adhesive-backed materials for stickers. This capability opens up a broader range of crafting possibilities, enabling you to experiment with various projects.
Customizable settings allow crafters to tailor their printouts to their specific needs, adjusting parameters like saturation and sharpness to achieve the desired effect. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for personalized projects where precision is essential.
Durability and longevity are also significant advantages, as the inks used in dedicated craft printers are formulated to resist fading over time. This ensures that your crafts remain vibrant and intact, whether they are displayed in a scrapbook or used for home décor.
User-friendly features, such as wireless connectivity and intuitive controls, make it easier for crafters of all skill levels to produce high-quality prints without a steep learning curve. This accessibility encourages creativity and experimentation, making the crafting process more enjoyable and efficient.
How Can You Properly Maintain Your Craft Printer for Longevity?
To ensure the longevity of your craft printer, proper maintenance is essential. Here are some key maintenance practices:
- Regular Cleaning: Keep the printer’s exterior and interior clean to prevent dust and debris from affecting performance.
- Use Quality Ink and Paper: Invest in high-quality ink and paper specifically designed for your craft printer to ensure optimal print quality.
- Check and Replace Ink Cartridges: Regularly monitor ink levels and replace cartridges before they run dry to avoid damaging the print head.
- Keep Firmware Updated: Regularly check for firmware updates from the manufacturer to ensure your printer operates with the latest enhancements and fixes.
- Perform Regular Print Head Cleaning: Utilize the printer’s built-in cleaning function to ensure that the print heads do not become clogged, which can affect print quality.
- Avoid Overloading the Printer: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on paper weight and type to prevent jams and mechanical issues.
- Store Properly: When not in use, cover the printer to protect it from dust and environmental factors that could damage its components.
Regular cleaning involves wiping down the printer’s surfaces and removing any paper dust from the interior, which can accumulate and affect print quality. Additionally, this helps maintain the printer’s aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Using quality ink and paper is crucial as inferior products can lead to poor print quality and potential damage to the printer. Always choose supplies that are recommended by the manufacturer for best results.
Monitoring ink levels is important to prevent the print head from drying out, which can happen if the printer runs out of ink mid-job. Replacing cartridges promptly ensures uninterrupted printing and maintains the quality of your prints.
Keeping firmware updated may enhance your printer’s performance and introduce new features that can improve your printing experience. It’s a straightforward process that can prevent issues related to software bugs or inefficiencies.
Performing regular print head cleaning helps to maintain consistent print quality by preventing clogs that can occur from dried ink. Most modern printers have an automatic cleaning cycle that users can easily initiate.
Avoiding overloading the printer not only helps prevent jams but also extends the lifespan of the printer’s mechanics. Following the manufacturer’s specifications ensures that the printer operates within its designed capabilities.
Proper storage of your printer when not in use reduces the risk of dust accumulation and protects it from environmental conditions that could degrade its performance over time. Using a cover can significantly extend the life of the printer.
What Key Factors Could Help You Choose the Right Craft Printer?
Choosing the right craft printer involves several key factors to ensure it meets your creative needs effectively.
- Print Quality: The clarity and vibrancy of printed images are crucial for crafting. Look for printers with high resolution (measured in DPI) which can produce sharp details and accurate colors, as this will enhance the overall quality of your projects.
- Compatibility with Materials: Different craft projects may require printing on various materials such as cardstock, vinyl, or fabric. Ensure the printer can handle the specific materials you plan to use, as some printers are designed for specialized media while others are more versatile.
- Size and Portability: Depending on your crafting space and how often you travel for projects, consider the printer’s size and weight. A compact, lightweight printer may be ideal for small workspaces or for taking to craft events, while larger printers might offer greater printing capabilities.
- Ink Type and Cost: The type of ink used can affect both print quality and the longevity of your prints. Additionally, consider the cost of replacement ink cartridges, as this can significantly impact your overall expenses, especially for high-volume printing.
- Ease of Use: Look for features that enhance user experience, such as intuitive software, touchscreen controls, or wireless connectivity. A printer that is easy to set up and operate will make your crafting process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Support for Design Software: Many crafters use specific design software for their projects. Ensure that the printer you choose is compatible with popular design programs, allowing for seamless printing of your custom designs and patterns.
- Reviews and Recommendations: Checking customer reviews and expert recommendations can provide insight into a printer’s performance and reliability. This feedback can help you gauge how well a printer meets the needs of other crafters and whether it might be a good fit for you.